On the top: Lady Mats’ own MVP

Sohpomore Alex Chiu takes home the MVP award, leading the varsity girls basketball team to league championship.

"MV" is no longer heard in the girls varsity basketball team routine cheer. After defeating Mountain View High school to secure first place in league,

the team now cheers "number one". The team finished its season on the top of the De Anza League with a league record of 11-1 and an overall

record of 16-10. The Lady Mats won league for the first time in many years and are now moving up to the tougher El Camino League.

Sophomore steps up to take a critical free throw Photo courtesy to Alex Chiu

"The season went really well. This team was one of the best teams I coached, talent and attitude wise. Our cohesiveness

allowed our team to be so successful," Coach Sara Borelli said.

The team ended the season in the first round of CCS with a 42-52 loss to Salinas High School. Along with the overall success of the team, sophomore Alex Chiu was awarded with the De Anza league MVP. Chiu and

Senior Michelle Young both were elected as the team's co-MVPs.

"I was really surprised because my goal wasn't to get MVP, but to help my team win. If I could split up the award to many pieces, I would give it to all my teammates," Chiu said.

Chiu averaged 13.7 points , 13.4 rebounds , and 1.3 blocks per game.

"This year I had to step up and take a larger role in the team, and I feel that our whole team will have to accept a bigger challenge with the higher league next year," Chiu said.

According to Coach Borelli, Chiu's scoring and rebounding abilities made her the most versatile player on the court. Borelli also commented on her ability to be not only carrying the team by herself, but also in a humble manner. Looking back on the season, Young recalled the hard work and sweat she put into the team

"[Chiu] never complains, and is always willing to try new things; she is very coachable and always finds ways to produce points. [Chiu] is a selfless player," Borelli said.

Among the four seniors leaving this year, Young sends a message to the returning players, "Now we have a rep to keep."